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What is the difference between SSDI and SSI?

Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, and Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, are both programs funded federally and managed through the Social Security Administration. They are both designed to support people who have disabilities which prevent them from working.

The main difference between SSDI and SSI is the revenue source through which they are funded. SSDI is funded through FICA and Social Security taxes. SSI is not financed through Social Security, but rather through general tax revenues. The qualifications for SSDI and SSI also differ.

SSDI, or Social Security Disability Insurance, will help you if you have a long history of work, and you have paid into Social Security in prior work years. To qualify for SSDI, you also need to have been working for five of the last ten years. SSDI will help if you are severely disabled and can't be employed in your field of work. Your medical issue must meet the Social Security disability guidelines, and SSDI will pay eligible family members, as well.

Supplemental Security Income, or SSI, will support you if you have low income and few resources. It will give you cash for your basic needs, like shelter, clothing, and food. SSI pays out money based mainly on your monetary need. The program will award benefits if you have low income and are 65 or older, if you are disabled due to a medical condition, or if you are blind.

If you submit a disability claim for Social Security Disability Insurance or SSI, the review workers will go through the application process. They will collect information and facts about your case and come to a decision.

You may be able to work through the system more efficiently if you work with a disability attorney or representative who can help you with the paperwork as well as the disability appeal processes. An attorney will be able to assist you in preparing all pertinent information and forms to ensure that your claim is properly handled as it moves through the system.

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